Latest news with #JustKids
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘Just Kids' Review: Tender and Informative Doc Examines Impact of Gender-Affirming Care Bans Sweeping the U.S.
Just Kids, Gianna Toboni's commanding documentary, follows a handful of trans children and their families as they navigate a United States increasingly hostile to trans rights and gender-affirming care. The film, which premiered at Tribeca, is an informative and emotionally potent take on a politically salient issue. Toboni spent an early part of her career as a producer for Vice, the documentary series that ran from 2013 until 2021, and elements of Just Kids bear a resemblance to the now sunsetted program. The director's mostly fly-on-the-wall approach to filming these families (cinematography by Daniel Hollis, Love on the Spectrum) lends the doc a gritty realism and an unexpected propulsiveness. More from The Hollywood Reporter 'Barbara Walters: Tell Me Everything' Review: Hulu Doc Offers a Solid Overview, but Limited Depth, on the Television Pioneer 'Charliebird,' 'Happy Birthday,' 'Natchez' Top Tribeca Festival Award Winners 'Tow' Review: Rose Byrne's Committed Performance Grounds a Compassionate Portrait of Homelessness But these aesthetic choices never sensationalize the realities of these participants, instead underscoring the harrowing stakes of their experiences. Crucially, Just Kids has a tender core: Its heart lies not in the trauma faced by trans kids trying to get gender-affirming care, but in their resilience and the love that persists in the face of state-sanctioned antagonism. Just Kids opens with an interview with the historian Susan Stryker, one of a handful of talking heads featured in the doc, who offers an overview of the issues facing transgender people in the United States. She talks about the recent waves of gender-affirming care bans and how much information exists about trans people. The issue has become a 'low-hanging fruit' for people hoping to influence elections and drive public policy in a more conservative direction. Conversations with Stryker are stitched alongside those with Kelli Parker, a writer and advocate, to build a sturdy narrative on which the rest of the film relies. They talk about how the advances of the last 20 years — from the election of Barack Obama to the legalization of gay marriage — riled up right-wing groups in the U.S., who declared themselves marginalized as a result of losing these so-called culture wars. They took action in the form of big spending, influencing public officials through elections and think tanks like the Heritage Foundation to take more conservative positions. 'They want the government to reflect them and their ideas,' says Parker of this coalition, 'and so they are passing these laws in an effort to inch this agenda forward.' The results of this aggressive mobilization has been felt in all sectors of American life, particularly when it comes to bodily autonomy. Restrictive policies on abortions go hand-in-hand with hostile policies against trans people. In both cases, the government encroachment is deemed necessary as a way to protect the children. Just Kids asks: Which ones? A central thesis of Toboni's doc concerns how these policies decide which children deserve to exist. It's a heartbreaking point that's underscored by Rae, Alazaiah and Tristan, three trans teenagers trying to survive in conservative parts of the country (South Carolina and Texas). Toboni also interviews their family members, who are supportive of their right to be trans. These parents and siblings are a surprising group, figures subverting expectations of who supports trans rights. Eric, a veteran and second-amendment enthusiast, has a love of country that extends to protecting the rights of his trans son, Rae. Just Kids is filled with scenes of Eric and his wife, Jessica, traveling to different state legislature hearings and testifying against proposed gender-affirming care bans. Zach and Raymond, Alazaiah's brothers, took her in after the death of the 17-year-old's mother so she didn't end up homeless. Together, their testimonies form an inspiring portrait of strength. Toboni complements interviews with these family members with footage of the trans children just living their lives — from Alazaiah excitedly posting to her followers on her TikTok feed and thrifting for new clothes (pink is a requirement) to Rae getting a haircut that makes him feel confident. But the stories also highlight the challenges these families and teens face in accessing state resources and medical care in parts of the country that criminalize their support. For these sections, Toboni talks to Andrea Jenkins, a member of the Minneapolis City Council, and Dr. Elizabeth Mack, the president of the American Academy of Pediatrics, to explore how trans kids face a disproportionate risk of homelessness as well as how many people fundamentally do not understand what constitutes gender-affirming care. Mack's interviews are particularly clarifying because she defines this particular care as any change that makes trans kids feel more like themselves. That explanation hopefully clarifies the fact that all of us affirm our gender every day, from our clothes and haircuts to pills we take to correct hormonal imbalances. In one disheartening scene, Tristan and her mother, Crystal, listen as their doctor tells them that recent laws have forced her to leave Texas and she can no longer provide medical care. Although she was able to write a year-long prescription for estrogen before departing, the abrupt termination leaves Tristan and her mother in a vulnerable situation. They must now consider whether or not to relocate. But the decision is marred by financial precarity: At the moment, Crystal doesn't have enough money to move to a state with more amenable laws. Their story underscores how not everybody can just find a new place to live when facing dehumanizing legislation. Just Kids falls in the category of recent docs like Preconceived and Zurawski v Texas, which premiered at Telluride, that survey how the right has effectively mobilized to dismantle the civil rights progress of the last 50 years. Like these other films, Toboni's feature takes a straightforward approach to uncovering details that will be illuminating for many viewers. One only hopes that it gets in front of the audiences who need to hear its message the most. Best of The Hollywood Reporter 13 of Tom Cruise's Most Jaw-Dropping Stunts Hollywood Stars Who Are One Award Away From an EGOT 'The Goonies' Cast, Then and Now
Yahoo
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Gianna & Jacqueline Toboni Launch Production Company Mother Media
EXCLUSIVE: Journalist and two-time Emmy-winning documentarian Gianna Toboni and her sister, actress and producer Jacqueline Toboni (The L Word: Generation Q), have announced the launch of Mother Media, a new bi-coastal production company dedicated to producing deeply personal, zeitgeist-defining content across both scripted and unscripted formats. With a slate that ranges from death row documentaries to celebrity biopics, Mother Media aims to explore the human condition through narratives that resonate on both an emotional and cultural level. More from Deadline 'SNL' Cast Unpacks Season 50 Including Miss Eggy, Chloe Fineman's Big Dumb Line, Straight Bowen Yang & Sarah Sherman Nearly Getting "Jacked" Octavia Spencer Returning For Blumhouse's 'Ma' Sequel Russell Simmons Hits HBO With $20M Defamation Suit Over 2020 Documentary Alleging Rape 'Our mission at Mother Media is to tell stories that feel both intensely personal and undeniably relevant,' said Gianna. 'Whether we're inside a prison cell or on a Hollywood set, we want to bring audiences closer to the truth of a person's experience—and by extension, the truth of our time.' Added Jacqueline: 'We've always been drawn to complex characters and stories that challenge the status quo. With Mother Media, we're creating a space where those stories can come to life in honor of our mother, the greatest storyteller we know.' Mother Media's debut project is a documentary titled Just Kids, which will premiere at the Tribeca Festival on Saturday. The film follows three families living in states that have banned gender-affirming care as they navigate the emotional, legal, and political stakes of their situation. As misinformation and fear dominate headlines, the film re-centers the human cost — and resilience— of those most impacted. The doc was just awarded a $25,000 grant from Subject Matter that will help support the filmmakers' impact, outreach, and distribution efforts. Mother Media is currently in production on a celebrity biopic, with several more scripted and unscripted projects in active development. A primary focus going forward will be to leverage unscripted IP for narrative adaptations. Gianna Toboni gained prominence as a senior correspondent and producer for Vice News, where she contributed to over 50 films that aired on platforms like HBO, Showtime, Hulu, and Vice. Her investigative work has taken her to more than 30 countries, including Iraq, Somalia, Nigeria, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia. She was among the first journalists to interview ISIS fighters on the frontlines in Iraq and has reported on issues such as cartel violence in Mexico, political corruption, and the plight of women escaping oppressive regimes. Before joining Vice, she worked as a correspondent for Al Jazeera and as a producer for ABC News. Jacquelin Toboni has been seen starring on shows like Doctor Odyssey, The L Word: Generation Q, Easy, and Grimm, with additional appearances in a number of indies. Mother Media is represented by CAA. Best of Deadline 'Nine Perfect Strangers' Season 2 Release Schedule: When Do New Episodes Come Out? 'Stick' Release Guide: When Do New Episodes Come Out? List Of Hollywood & Media Layoffs From Paramount To Warner Bros Discovery To CNN & More
IOL News
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Turning pages, not heads: the rise of books as the ultimate A-lister accessory
The simple act of carrying a book signals a cultural shift - a recognition that literature is not just about escape but an invitation to explore ideas, provoke thought, and reflect personality. Image: Pexels/Thought Catalog Once upon a time, the world of fashion was ruled by glamorous bags and statement shoes, but in a twist that has both surprised and delighted, the spotlight has shifted to a new and unlikely accessory: books. With A-listers like Timothée Chalamet, Dua Lipa, and Bella Hadid embracing the literary world, literature is staging a remarkable comeback, solidifying its place as the finest accessory of our time. These days, it seems that to be truly 'in', you need to be clutching a good read. The rise of celebrity book clubs, with powerhouses like Reese Witherspoon leading the charge alongside Lipa, has added to this burgeoning trend, rekindling a collective appreciation for the written word as something more than mere entertainment. It's become a cultural phenomenon, likened to a new era of romance and sensibility, tapping into society's longing for a sense of depth, mystery, and timelessness. Chalamet, in particular, has emerged as a passionate ambassador for this literary revival. With his charismatic presence and impressive selection of both classic and contemporary literature, the actor has reignited the public's interest in reading. Whether leaving a bustling film set or making an entrance at a glitzy event, he's often seen clutching a book, not just as a prop but as a hallmark of identity and intellect. These books are not merely accessories; they reflect a personal narrative. Similarly, Lipa has embraced this trend with a graceful flair, often pairing her stylish outfits with books like Patti Smith's memoir 'Just Kids'. Her appearances present reading as a fashionable statement, making it clear that engaging with literature is a desirable pursuit. Moreover, the trend transcends gender and genre. Fans of the hit show "Stranger Things" may recall actor Joseph Quinn walking down the street with a copy of Lynne Tillman's 'Weird Fucks' prominent in his back pocket, instantly elevating the casual outfit into a viral fashion moment. This trend of integrating literature into one's everyday attire conveys a touching reminder of the lure of a good story, acting as both a conversation starter and a subtle declaration of style. Even athletic superstars are joining the literary league. LeBron James has made headlines for posting photos of himself engrossed in novels like 'The Hunger Games". The choices celebrities make in the books they carry highlight their personalities and aspirations, as each title curated for public view contributes to a narrative that speaks volumes about their character. As the digital age leaves a palpable mark on leisure activities, the resurgence of reading as a social activity is a welcome twist. No longer relegated to solitude, reading has transformed into a vibrant element that is flaunted at social gatherings and woven into online identities. Social media has become a platform where stars showcase their commitment to literature, breathing new life into a pastime that many had left behind in favour of scrolling feeds. Publishers are also taking note of this literary shift, angling campaigns towards influential figures whose endorsements can lead to soaring sales. The once-dry business of book promotion has been revitalised, with innovative marketing strategies forging connections between celebrities and literature. Collaborative projects, author discussions, and interactive book clubs are emerging, inviting fans to engage in literary conversations led by their favourite stars. As more celebrities embrace books as aesthetic accessories, we can anticipate a significant evolution in public perception toward reading. No longer the solitary pursuit of introverts, books are becoming a fashionable dialogue, intertwining intellect with style. The simple act of carrying a book signals a cultural shift - a recognition that literature is not just about escape but an invitation to explore ideas, provoke thought, and reflect personality.
Scoop
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scoop
Award-Winning Musician Mohi Drops New Single ‘Just Kids' & Confirms Release Date For More New Music In 2025
Press Release – The Public Good Hot off the back of releasing his single Flowers in Hendo in April, award-winning musician and Aotearoa's neo-soul lover boy MOHI (Ngāpuhi, Te Rarawa, Ngāi Te Rangi and Ngāti Kahungunu ki Te Wairoa) has this week delivered a second track – Just Kids – and announced a release date for more tracks ahead of his full album later in 2025. Available now, MOHI's second single Just Kids speaks to the experience of four kids growing up in West Auckland. MOHI says: ' Just Kids was written in one morning. I couldn't get the picture out of my head of us kids jamming bullrush in the parking lot at our old school. I started writing about things that were significant to me at that time like Purple Starz, lolly bags we'd smash before touch rugby at Strid Rd, and $2 hot chips with my mates and cuzzies.' MOHI's new music, which is being released under the umbrella title of The Flowers That Grow, comprises 'Side A' of a year-long project which will see him continue to release more fresh tracks throughout the year to complete his personal storytelling journey. Side A – The Flowers That Grow will be available on all major streaming platforms on May 23. Featuring singles Flowers In Hendo, Just Kids and his 2024 Waiata Anthems track My Love, The Flowers That Grow will also feature two brand new songs which continue to highlight MOHI's evolution as an artist through heartfelt and meaningful storytelling. While Te Marama Puoro o Aotearoa (NZ Music Month) is in full swing, MOHI is currently part of a contingent of Kiwi artists who are representing Aotearoa in Focus Wales Indigenous Artists Festival where he is showcasing his latest mahi to an international audience. When he returns to Aotearoa, he's excited to share his latest and most personal singles with fans and beyond. MOHI shares: 'I'm so stoked with the feedback of my first single Flowers in Hendo. Every song on this EP is everything to me. It's taken three months to write, but a lifetime to get to this stage in my life to release this music. This music is for me, for mine, for the people that resonate with the message, for the people it is meant for.' Just Kids is now available on all major streaming platforms. LISTEN HERE. MOHI's full five tracks The Flowers That Grow (Side A of the full album coming later this year) will be available on all major streaming platforms from May 23. Just Kids and The Flowers That Grow were produced with the support of NZ on Air. ABOUT MOHI: Hailing from the urban streets of Henderson, West Auckland, award-winning Indigenous artist MOHI is a once-in-a-lifetime talent. His music weaves Te Reo Māori and traditional Māori storytelling with English lyrics and urban influences, creating a unique and visionary sound. With whakapapa connecting to Te Tai Tokerau, Tauranga Moana, and Ngāti Kahungunu ki Te Wairoa, MOHI's journey is deeply rooted in his Māori heritage. Since launching his solo career in 2020, MOHI has grown to become a household name. With a string of chart-topping hit singles under his belt, MOHI's music has struck a chord with listeners from all walks of life across the globe. His latest project 'The Flowers That Grow From Concrete Pavements' has already seen two singles topping the NZ Music Singles Charts 2024. Last year, MOHI won the Best Te Reo Māori Album and Best Male Artist at the Māori Music Awards 2024. MOHI was also nominated for the 'Best Māori Artist' and the 'Mana Reo' awards at this year's Aotearoa Music Awards 2024 and clinched the coveted APRA MAIOHA AWARD for his waiata 'Me Pēhea Rā.' MOHI now sets his eyes on international waters with his first showing of his latest project 'The Flowers That Grow From Concrete Pavements' happening at the FOCUS International Showcase Festival in Wales, UK this May. Prepare to be taken on a journey that transcends time and space, as MOHI delivers an unforgettable live performance that is as visually captivating as it is sonically mesmerising.
Scoop
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scoop
Award-Winning Musician Mohi Drops New Single ‘Just Kids' & Confirms Release Date For More New Music In 2025
Hot off the back of releasing his single Flowers in Hendo in April, award-winning musician and Aotearoa's neo-soul lover boy MOHI (Ngāpuhi, Te Rarawa, Ngāi Te Rangi and Ngāti Kahungunu ki Te Wairoa) has this week delivered a second track - Just Kids - and announced a release date for more tracks ahead of his full album later in 2025. Available now, MOHI's second single Just Kids speaks to the experience of four kids growing up in West Auckland. MOHI says: ' Just Kids was written in one morning. I couldn't get the picture out of my head of us kids jamming bullrush in the parking lot at our old school. I started writing about things that were significant to me at that time like Purple Starz, lolly bags we'd smash before touch rugby at Strid Rd, and $2 hot chips with my mates and cuzzies.' MOHI's new music, which is being released under the umbrella title of The Flowers That Grow, comprises 'Side A' of a year-long project which will see him continue to release more fresh tracks throughout the year to complete his personal storytelling journey. Side A - The Flowers That Grow will be available on all major streaming platforms on May 23. Featuring singles Flowers In Hendo, Just Kids and his 2024 Waiata Anthems track My Love, The Flowers That Grow will also feature two brand new songs which continue to highlight MOHI's evolution as an artist through heartfelt and meaningful storytelling. While Te Marama Puoro o Aotearoa (NZ Music Month) is in full swing, MOHI is currently part of a contingent of Kiwi artists who are representing Aotearoa in Focus Wales Indigenous Artists Festival where he is showcasing his latest mahi to an international audience. When he returns to Aotearoa, he's excited to share his latest and most personal singles with fans and beyond. MOHI shares: 'I'm so stoked with the feedback of my first single Flowers in Hendo. Every song on this EP is everything to me. It's taken three months to write, but a lifetime to get to this stage in my life to release this music. This music is for me, for mine, for the people that resonate with the message, for the people it is meant for.' Just Kids is now available on all major streaming platforms. LISTEN HERE. MOHI's full five tracks The Flowers That Grow (Side A of the full album coming later this year) will be available on all major streaming platforms from May 23. Just Kids and The Flowers That Grow were produced with the support of NZ on Air. ABOUT MOHI: Hailing from the urban streets of Henderson, West Auckland, award-winning Indigenous artist MOHI is a once-in-a-lifetime talent. His music weaves Te Reo Māori and traditional Māori storytelling with English lyrics and urban influences, creating a unique and visionary sound. With whakapapa connecting to Te Tai Tokerau, Tauranga Moana, and Ngāti Kahungunu ki Te Wairoa, MOHI's journey is deeply rooted in his Māori heritage. Since launching his solo career in 2020, MOHI has grown to become a household name. With a string of chart-topping hit singles under his belt, MOHI's music has struck a chord with listeners from all walks of life across the globe. His latest project 'The Flowers That Grow From Concrete Pavements' has already seen two singles topping the NZ Music Singles Charts 2024. Last year, MOHI won the Best Te Reo Māori Album and Best Male Artist at the Māori Music Awards 2024. MOHI was also nominated for the 'Best Māori Artist' and the 'Mana Reo' awards at this year's Aotearoa Music Awards 2024 and clinched the coveted APRA MAIOHA AWARD for his waiata "Me Pēhea Rā." MOHI now sets his eyes on international waters with his first showing of his latest project 'The Flowers That Grow From Concrete Pavements' happening at the FOCUS International Showcase Festival in Wales, UK this May. Prepare to be taken on a journey that transcends time and space, as MOHI delivers an unforgettable live performance that is as visually captivating as it is sonically mesmerising.
